Just had a filling placed? Great job taking care of your oral health! Now that your tooth is restored, you might be wondering what you can (and can’t) eat — especially in the hours and days following your appointment.
While modern fillings are strong and long-lasting, it’s still important to give your mouth time to adjust and allow the filling material to fully set (if needed). Eating the wrong foods too soon could cause sensitivity, discomfort, or even damage your new filling.
Here’s a helpful guide to the foods you should avoid with a new filling, and when it’s safe to return to your normal diet.
⏱ First, What Type of Filling Did You Get?
There are two common types of fillings used in most Canadian dental clinics:
- Composite (white) fillings – Harden instantly using a curing light
- Amalgam (silver) fillings – Take up to 24 hours to fully set
Your dentist will tell you which type you received — and how long you should wait before eating.
🚫 Foods to Avoid Right After a New Filling
For the first 24 hours, or until your dentist gives the all-clear, avoid:
- 🧊 Very Hard Foods
Ice, nuts, hard candy, raw carrots or apples (unless cut into small pieces). Hard foods can crack or dislodge a new filling, especially if it’s still settling in. - 🍬 Sticky or Chewy Foods
Gum, caramel, toffee, gummy candy. Sticky foods may pull on the filling, especially composite ones, and can also stick in small gaps around the area, leading to bacteria buildup. - 🌡️ Extremely Hot or Cold Foods
Ice cream, hot soup or coffee, popsicles or slushies. Temperature-sensitive teeth are common after a new filling. These foods may cause temporary discomfort or sharp zaps of sensitivity. - 🍿 Crunchy or Crumbly Foods
Popcorn, chips, crackers, toast or crusty bread. These foods can get stuck between the teeth or under the filling margin, increasing the risk of irritation or decay if not cleaned properly.
🦷 What If Your Mouth Is Still Numb?
If you had local anaesthetic, wait until the numbness fully wears off before eating anything. Chewing while numb can lead to:
- Biting your cheek or tongue without realizing it
- Damaging the new filling or nearby teeth
Stick to soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, soup (not too hot), or scrambled eggs if you need to eat during this period.
✅ What Can You Eat with a New Filling?
Once your dentist confirms it’s safe — and if your filling is set — you can enjoy:
- Soft fruits (bananas, ripe peaches)
- Cooked veggies
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft pasta or rice
- Eggs, fish, tofu, or shredded chicken
Just remember to chew on the opposite side if you’re experiencing sensitivity or if the filling feels tender.
⏱ How Long Should You Watch What You Eat?
- Composite fillings – Harden immediately, but you may still want to avoid very hard or sticky foods for 24–48 hours to reduce sensitivity.
- Amalgam fillings – Avoid hard/chewy foods for at least 24 hours to give the material time to fully harden.
If you experience pain when chewing, contact your dentist — your filling may need adjustment.
Final Thoughts
Taking it easy on your new filling for the first day or two can help ensure it lasts longer, feels better, and stays securely in place. If you’re ever unsure, just ask your dentist what’s safe — they’ll guide you based on the specific material and placement.
Questions after your filling? We’re here to help. Whether you’re feeling sensitivity or just want guidance on what to eat, our team is always happy to answer your questions and ensure your dental work heals properly. Book a follow-up or give us a call today for friendly, expert care.